While the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks tend to receive more press, the Nashville Predators have quietly put together a strong season. Their performance in 2011-12 has not gone unnoticed here, with three of the five Central Division awards going to Predators' players.

Photo: Despite his team's struggles this season, Tampa Bay Lightning forward Steven Stamkos has much to smile about when looking back on his own performance in the 2011-12 season (courtesy of

Minas Panagiotakis/Icon SMI)

After years of regular season dominance and postseason struggles, the Washington Capitals entered 2011-12 at a crossroads. When the team failed to respond early in the season, Bruce Boudreau lost his job and Dale Hunter was hired to save the Capitals' season. While Hunter's full story isn't yet written — Washington is barely holding on to eighth place in the Eastern Conference with two games remaining — one thing is certain: this season was one of underachieving for the Capitals.